Chad "Mississippi" Johnson is the man behind CJ's Crooked Hideaway and CJ's White River Outfitter. He is a native of Crystal Springs, MS. His love for fly fishing began after he first visited the area in the Spring of 2003. He later moved into the White River area in July 2006. He has guided on the White River system since 2007. He has also guided out of Rocky River Lodge in Port Graham, Alaska in 2007 & 2010, for both Salmon & Dollie Varden seasons.
With persistence & hard work, Chad has accomplished more than he could ever imagine. He has been featured in several magazine publications such as Gray’s Sporting Journal, Eastern Fly Fishing, American Angler, Fly Fisherman, & Outdoor Life. He has also been featured in book such as “Nymph Masters: Fly Fishing Secrets from Expert Anglers” & “Feeding Time: A Fly Fisher’s Guide to What, Where & When Trout Eat” both by Jason Randall & “Strip-Set: Fly-Fishing Techniques; Tactics & Patterns for Streamers” by George Daniels; "The Hunt for Giant Trout" by Landon Mayer; "Modern Streamers for Trophy Trout II" by Kelly Galloup and Largemouth Bass Flies by Drew Chicone
He is a Simms Guide Ambassador, RIO pro, Costa Del Mar Pro, Shawnee/Supreme/Predator pro staffer.
As the Head Guide for Dally’s Ozark Fly Fisher, Chad guides more than 200 days a year and is widely acknowledged as one of the best streamer guides in the country by high-profile streamer gurus like Blane Chocklett and Kelly Galloup. He is a fly designer and an innovative and award-winning fly tyer who is sought after for his outstanding fly tying demonstrations.
Chad’s laid-back Mississippi accent and style make him a crowd favorite everywhere he goes.
"Bottom line is there’s no better place to be than in the boat with a customer sharing this sport. I love my job! I had no idea that my move from Mississippi would land me on such a fast track to such an awesome fly fishing career. Thanks to all of the support of the fly heads out there."
-Chad Johnson